The Picks: Lions at Eagles

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After a tough loss to the Steelers that dropped the Eagles to 3-2, they're back at The Linc to host the Lions this week, secretly one of the NFL's worst teams. And with that, off we go…"

ESPN: Yes, the Eagles have issues -- Michael Vick continues to turn the ball over and the secondary hasn't lived up to expectations. But compared to the Lions, Philly looks like the 2007 Patriots. And that disparity explains why all but one ESPN expert (8 of 9) are picking the Eagles to beat the Lions. (Tom Jackson is the wild card).

Last Time They Met: Vick, Eagles Beat Lions

CBSSports.com: They're just as bullish here -- 8 of 9 experts like the Eagles to win although only half of them (CBSSports.com's picking robot doesn't make against-the-spread picks) think Philly will cover the 5.5-point spread. Here's CBSSports.com's Pete Prisco on the matchup: "The Lions are coming off a bye and a trip to Philadelphia isn't an easy way to do so. The Eagles will be feisty after a tough loss last week at Pittsburgh. The Lions have issues on defense, which you don't want against the Eagles -- if they hold onto the ball. I think Mike Vick does what he did last time at home and takes care of the ball. Eagles roll, 31-20."

Yahoo Sports: Eagles fever continues: Two of three experts like Philly, as do the Yahoo users.

NFL Cheerleaders 2012: Ladies of the Gridiron

What Vegas is saying: More reasons to like the Eagles (to cover, anyway) "The Lions will be looking for their first against-the-spread (ATS) cover of the season when they visit the Eagles. Detroit is 0-4 ATS this season and 1-10 ATS over its last 11 games. The Eagles have enjoyed success against Detroit over the years; in six meetings since 1995, Philadelphia is a perfect 6-0 (straight up) and 5-1 ATS against the Lions."

Gabe, my 3-year-old yellow Labrador (3-2): I stood in the yard with two tennis balls, one that had a hastily scribbled "L" for Lions (courtesy of my 5-year-old), and another with an "E" (for Eagles). I threw the balls at the same time in the same direction. Whichever ball Gabe retrieved would be the winner. Apparently, he's going big on the Eagles.

My 5-year-old: "A lion would beat an eagle in a battle unless the eagle flew over a cliff." I think this means he likes the Lions.

Me (3-2): The Lions are secretly one of the worst teams in the NFL. The vaunted defensive line is in name only, quarterback Matthew Stafford has struggled with consistency, and wide receiver Calvin Johnson was on the cover of Madden for crying out loud. It could be a good day for Philly to really commit to the run. Eagles win, 24-20.